THE MENACE OF ILLICIT DRUG ABUSE AND TRAFFICKING

The International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking also known as World Drug Day is a United Nations International day against drug abuse and the trade of illegal of drug in the world.

World Drug Day is observed annually on 26th June to raise awareness about the effect of drug abuse and illicit trafficking in the world.

On this day, member states are expected to organize sensitization programs that will enlighten the citizens on the dangers and negative effects of drug abuse and illicit drug trafficking.

Speaking on the theme “Listening First- Listening to Children and Youth is the first step to help them grow healthy and safe”, the Member of Parliament for Atebubu- Amantin constituency, Hon. Kofi Amoakohene said “the theme is focused on addressing the general concerns of Children and the Youth in the society as well as throwing more light on the role of parents to take up their full parental responsibilities in shaping the lives of their children”.

Illicit drug trafficking according to him has become a worrying trend for nations across the world for over three decades with Ghana not exempted from the numerous challenges.

This year’s celebration however will be used to sensitize parents and offer guidance in cultivating the habit of listening to the worries of their children; this is very necessary since it is the first step to help them live and grow healthy and stay safe.

Mr. Amoakohene urged parents to establish a friendly relationship between their wards so as to enable their children open up to them. “Parents should endeavor to listen, investigate and act promptly to issues raised by their children in this regard”.

In order to curb this menace, the outspoken MP said the Narcotics Control Board (NACOB) and the police are supposed to be supported with both financial and technical equipments in order to equip themselves with new and innovative ways of fighting drug abuse and trafficking. “NACOB and the police must be sufficiently resourced both financially and technically in order to equip themselves with new and innovative ways of fighting menace”.

“Nonetheless I commend the NACOB and the Food and Drugs Board (FDA) for the good work over the past years to ensure that the influx of illicit drugs is curtailed to the barest minimum”.

Mr. Kofi Amoakohene in his final words called on opinion leaders, civil society groups, security agencies, the Ghana Education Service and religious leaders to be actively involved in the fight against drug abuse.